About Me
Welcome to the world of Helen Dowson Textiles, where artistry and innovation come together to craft stunning hand made pieces. Discover my story, the passion that drives me, and my commitment to delivering timeless beauty and quality.
My Story
Where did it all start?
At the age of three, I’d regularly sit with my mum on Saturday afternoon’s learning to sew for my bears, which progressed into my teens making my own clothes.
Life became busy with children and working full time so the hobby was mostly laid to rest except a few special items, christening, fancy dress and wedding outfits.
As life changed I joined a City and Guilds course to develop my skills in embroidery, this is where the desire to produce my own fabric from initially came. So, with a spinning wheel and rigid heddle loom, a brief afternoons lesson and I was on washing and preparing fleeces, spinning and weaving to produce my first cloth.
Spinning whilst a pleasure took a back seat to yarn dying and weaving.
A three day course with Janet Phillips, and the fire was lit, the passion for weaving really started to take hold.
Life’s twists and turns, weaving being a hobby was always in the background, not a priority as life’s demands took centre stage, until my husband seeing the pleasure weaving brought purchased an old eight shaft floor loom.
The thrill of receiving the loom, hiring a van to collect and the giggle and laughter in setting it up in pride of place, in our shed. Seeing what I could produce on this loom really changed the focus for me, driving the weaving to the forefront of my mind and spare time.
Whilst Ive worked in full time employment for many years it came to a point earlier this year when the desire to be creative welled up, I was no longer able to suppress it, so, taking a leap of faith, with support from my husband and family, I handed in my notice and here I am today, thoroughly enjoying every minute, happier and healthier.
The Design
Where does my inspiration come from ?
when considering my next woven piece it has usually been for someone I have in mind. The colours, the pattern, the yarns and the finished product is something which I hope will bring pleasure, warmth and a smile. It will reflect who they are and what they are about. So, being able to develop and design a suitable pattern, source yarns which are produced in the UK, and which are environmentally sustainable, and dye these yarns to match the colour pallet selected helps me to achieve beautiful, quality made which will last for many years, and hopefully be treasured by those whom receive them
My Vision
To bring warmth, beauty, and individuality into every home by creating handwoven and stencilled pieces that reflect the unique personality of each customer. Through craftsmanship, creativity, and care, I aim to make everyday spaces feel truly personal and inspiring.
My Goals
At the heart of my work is a passion for creating pieces that are as unique as the people and homes they belong to. Every handwoven and stencilled design is made to last, blending traditional craft with fresh, contemporary ideas. I strive to make each customer’s experience personal and memorable, listening carefully, designing thoughtfully, and ensuring every detail reflects their style and story. My aim is for every item to bring a sense of pride, beauty, and inspiration into the home. As my business grows, I remain committed to sourcing materials responsibly, exploring new designs, and expanding my collections to offer something special for every season. Above all, my goal is to keep creating with care, creativity, and purpose, so each piece finds its perfect place.
To craft timeless, handwoven and stencilled pieces that celebrate individuality, enrich the home, and are made with care for you and your loved ones.
Shop launches January 2026
The Mouse
Why a mouse I hear you say ….
As the little three year old sitting sewing with my mum, I would be watching Bagpuss, mesmerised by those busy little mice, Charlie Mouse, Jenny Mouse Janey Mouse, Lizzie Mouse, Eddie Mouse and Willy Mouse, mending and fixing ….they have been a part of my mending and fixing for many years, so when I was designing my logo, of course it had to have a mouse. I hope you like it.